In recent first study testing, scientists are testing a one-time treatment which permanently alters DNA in blood cells which suggests a treatment and possible cure for sickle cell disease and beta thalassem (USNews, 2020). In this treatment, stem cells are removed from a patient's blood, and a tool called CRISPR aims to remove the switching gene that defects hemoglobin. Then, patients are given strong medicines to kill off other, flawed blood-producing cells, and the stem cells are given back (USNews, 2020). So far, the gene editing tests suggest it is working as there are desired, encouraging effects (USNews, 2020).
Sources:
https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2020-12-05/gene-editing-treatment-shows-promise-for-sickle-cell-disease
It was so interesting to read this because I personally know someone who struggles with this disease. I hope this is turns out to be a successful research!
ReplyDelete